Wilkinson faces long spell out of action

Rob Andrew, Newcastle Falcons director of rugby, has said he "doubts very much" that fly-half Jonny Wilkinson will be fit for England's summer tour to New Zealand and Australia.

Wilkinson is currently recovering from shoulder surgery and, although he is back training with his club, he is unable to resume contact training and is unlikely to make his England comeback until November 13 against Canada.

The 24-year-old had further tests in London yesterday and England coach Sir Clive Woodward has insisted that he will only consider Wilkinson for the summer tour if he is "100 per cent fit".

Andrew, who has watched Wilkinson's recovery from close quarters, believes he will need to be patient before he returns to competitive action.

"This has been a tough time for Jonny but he has to come to terms with the fact that there's no point in coming back too soon," Andrew told the Daily Express.

"We've told him for weeks just to forget about it until next season. I doubt very much he will be fit for the tour."